Some questions about donations of land or donations of conservation easements:

What are the economic advantages to the owner of land who donates property to the WSLC?
Gifts to charitable organizations are tax deductible. Individual tax benefits will vary. If a conservation easement is given, the value of the easement is considered a charitable donation.

Can I specify what I wish to be done with my land after my donation, or after my estate is resolved?
The WSLC will maintain the land in such a way that would avoid long-range expenses while enhancing natural area aesthetics. Efforts will be made to encourage the growth of native flora and fauna on the land. It is quite possible that the WSLC can follow the donor's wishes.

I have a home and an acre of land that I wish to leave to the WSLC. Will it be preserved as I have known it?
Unless the home is of historic value the WSLC will, with the owner's permission, sell the property, using the proceeds to buy natural lands. This is a way in which the donor can preserve natural areas without actually owning natural areas.

Is the WSLC a profit making organization?
No. We are a 501(c)3 organization registered with the IRS. Our only goal is to preserve land for its intrinsic value for future generations. Members of the Board of Directors are unpaid and we intend to keep our administrative expenses at a true minimum. We depend on gifts in kind, land to be used for trade, and cash donations.

I am a developer, but there is much on my tract that is not suitable for building, and that I wish to preserve for aesthetic purposes. Would this land qualify for WSLC ownership?
Yes. If it is woodland or wetland, even recently created wetland, we would be especially interested. Land donated to the WSLC is not available for future development.

I have a farm that I have had most of my life. Neither of my two children is especially interested in preserving it. Could the WSLC maintain this farm as open land, and perhaps even keep it as a working farm?
Frequently it is possible to contract the farming activities and continue to operate a farm. If this is not feasible, prairie or forest restoration can be accomplished. These are among several options for long term management. The donor may wish to discuss the future of the land with a representative of the WSLC to allow his wishes to be more firmly established.

What lands generally will not be accepted by the WSLC?
Lands cannot be accepted that have liabilities such as hazardous chemical contamination, liens, or other characteristics that would result in a financial drain on the Conservancy.

What are the operating policies of the WSLC?
The WSLC conducts its operations adhering to the Land Trust Standards and Practices guidelines of the National Land Trust Alliance.